Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Mediterranean cuisine? Today, we’ll be exploring the mouthwatering recipe for Labanese Shish Tawook Plate, a popular dish that captures the essence of Lebanese cooking. This flavorful dish features marinated chicken skewers that are grilled to perfection, and it often comes with aromatic rice and fresh vegetables.
Shish Tawook has a rich history in Lebanese culture. Originally served during festive occasions, this dish has become a favorite for many due to its *tender texture* and *zesty flavor*. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that many people love to share with family and friends. The popularity of this dish lies in its *tasty marinade*, which combines spices and yogurt, making the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
Let’s get started on making your very own Labanese Shish Tawook Plate that will impress everyone at your dinner table!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Chicken breast | 1 pound (450g) |
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pita bread (for serving) | 2-3 pieces |
| Fresh veggies (cucumber, tomato, etc.) | Assorted |
*Suggestions for alternatives*: If you can’t find yogurt, you can use sour cream. For a vegetarian twist, substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper together until well combined. This will create a *tangy and flavorful marinade* for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes and add them to the marinade. Mix well, ensuring that each piece of chicken is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature. You can also use a grill pan on the stove if you don’t have access to a grill.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Prepare the Plate: While the chicken is grilling, prepare your pita bread and fresh veggies on a serving platter. You can add a side of rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.
7. Serve: Once the chicken is ready, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Labanese Shish Tawook Plate warm, alongside the pita bread and fresh veggies. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 35g | 12% |
| Fats | 12g | 18% |
| Sugars | 4g | 4% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
Tips and Tricks
– Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This lets the spices soak in and makes the chicken even more delicious!
– Grilling Alternatives: You can also bake the chicken skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes if you don’t have a grill.
– Add Your Own Twist: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra flavor and color.
– Avoid Dry Chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
FAQs
What is Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is a popular Lebanese dish consisting of marinated chicken skewers that are grilled until juicy and flavorful.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! While the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can also use lamb, beef, or even shrimp for a delicious variation.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is recommended.
What can I serve with Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook goes well with pita bread, rice, salads, or grilled vegetables.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Shish Tawook can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on a grill or in a pan.
Can I grill Shish Tawook indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stove if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
What is the best way to prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them on the grill to prevent burning.
Is Shish Tawook spicy?
No, it is generally not spicy. The flavors come from the marinade, which is tangy and aromatic, rather than hot.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, mushrooms, or even eggplant for a tasty vegetarian version.
What is the traditional way to serve Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is traditionally served on a plate with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and rice, often accompanied by garlic sauce or yogurt sauce.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy your homemade Labanese Shish Tawook Plate, and share it with your friends and family for a delightful taste of Lebanese cuisine!
